(NaturalHealth365)  Statins, a class of medications primarily prescribed to lower cholesterol levels and promoted as a way to avoid a heart attack, have actually been shown to cause inflammation and other issues in the body, including heart problems – as you’ll soon see.  The most frequently prescribed statins encompass pravastatin (brand name: Pravachol), simvastatin (brand name: Zocor), rosuvastatin (brand name: Crestor), and atorvastatin (brand name: Lipitor).

A recent study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology shows that taking statins might make things worse for people with heart failure by affecting their muscles and gut health, leading to more inflammation.  A previous study featured in Clinical Pharmacology makes an even more concerning point.  The study suggests that statins might have a net negative impact on heart health, challenging the conventional wisdom surrounding their use.

Why statins are no longer worth the risk

Chances are you’ve read or heard about how statins are the most effective means of preventing a heart attack.  Doctors and academicians have lauded statins as the primary line of defense against heart disease, the top cause of death across the globe.  However, the use of statins over a lengthy period appears to accelerate the calcification of the coronary artery instead of safeguarding it.

According to one study, statins are likely to serve as mitochondrial toxins that reduce muscle functionality within the heart and its connecting blood vessels.  The decline in muscle functionality occurs with the reduction of CoQ10, short for coenzyme Q10.  CoQ10 is a natural compound found in the body that is an antioxidant, safeguarding cells from harm and enhancing energy synthesis.

A CoQ10 deficiency hinders the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), an essential transporter of cellular energy.  The result is a significant energy reduction that is likely to cause damage to the heart and coronary artery.  The authors of the study linked above believe several years of statin use causes mitochondrial DNA damage over time.

The key takeaway from the study is that statins likely cause the accumulation of arterial calcium by suppressing vitamin K.  Moreover, statins also harm the proteins that transmit selenium, a mineral necessary for optimal heart health.  The study authors also suggest statins might cause calcification through increased inflammation.

The problem lies in the fact that doctors are unwilling to objectively consider the risks posed by statins.  An unbiased examination of the data shows statins play a part in causing heart failure.  The startling truth that every heart patient should be aware of is that between 70% and 90% of cardiologists accept financial compensation for prescribing statins.

Solutions to support heart health naturally

Improving heart health is as simple as exercising for 30 minutes per day.  Take a 30-minute daily walk, play some pickleball, or just dance, and you’ll build momentum toward a healthier heart.  Even a moderate amount of strength training or gardening work can condition your heart muscle.  And, finally, in terms of exercise for those people low in energy (to start) … try some deep breathing exercises – several times per day – to reduce blood pressure and improve heart health.

Increase your intake of organic foods and beverages with antioxidants, and you’ll also minimize the chances of blood clots and reduce excessive cholesterol levels and oxidative stress.

Mind the quantity of food you consume.  Never let your eyes be bigger than your stomach.  Plus, a very important “pro tip:” minimize your exposure to wireless radiation from mobile devices to reduce the risk of irregular or rapid heart beats that can stress the heart muscle.

Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to naturally reduce the risk of heart disease, own the Cardiovascular Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov
Cardiacos.net
Planet-today.com
NIH.gov
Sciencedirect.com
Healthline.com